blocked outside drain

[judethepude]

I have just discovered that the drain outside my kitchen, ie, the one that drains away from the sink, washing machine and dishwasher, as well as the gutter, is blocked. I don't want to call out a plumber, and am not covered by any of these much-advertised insurance policies. I have no rods or other implements with which to clean it. Can anyone help?

[DirtyHabit]

If you have an old type mop you could try removing the grid and plunging the mop quickly up and down in the drain. It can create enough force to move the blockage.

[gardenknowin]

It depends what's blocking it ! At this time of year, leaves may be the cause, aided and abetted by whatever you put down your sink drain. Most DIY stores sell drain cleaning liquids, but to my mind the initial solution is a bucket of VERY hot water with a VERY strong dose of bleach (add the bleach to the water, not the other way round) If that doesn't work, regret to say that you need to acquire a pair of elbow length rubber gloves (heavy duty) (B&Q or local hardware store), and put your arm down as far as the trap (bendy bit) and pull out all the gunge (none too nice, regret to say) - then invest in a drain cover (hardware shop, builders merchant etc. Also ensure that (as I am sure you do!) that items in dishwasher are scraped of scraps before washing - it's amazing what a claggy, sticky substance can be produced by modern detergents and food scraps. But I suspect the problem is either leaves or moss from your roof via gutters and downspout. Best of luck, cleared a few in my time (and I'm no plumber...)

[stanleyman]

You need to clean out the trap as much as possible by hand, use rubber gloves or a plastic bag if you are squeamish. If this doesn't clear it then it is maybe a build up of grease further down the pipe in which case try to get bleach, washing up liquid and boiling water down it. Once it starts to move keep going with the hot water until it appears clear. Check any drain manholes that it is not backing up from anywhere else.

[logman]

In the first instance, i would pour a bucket of hot soapy water straight down the drain,have a length of wire close at hand and start proding quik while its still hot!

[judethepude]

What an excellent set of responses! Thank you! I am now going to roll up my sleeves - I'm not at all squeamish - and get to work. I'll let you all know how it goes if you can bear the excitement!

Jude

[maggie01]

I had this problem not so long ago and as logman says use a piece of wire (I used a metal coat hanger bent to go down the drain) and pull out any rubbish you can. When you think you have pulled out as much rubbish as you can, use very hot soapy water. It took me ages and I was about to give up when I tried the hot water and bingo it worked. Messy, smelly job but it saves a few pounds. Good Luck.

[judethepude]

Thanks everyone. I used a mixture of all your ideas, and now have a free-flowing drain once again.